12/11   To whoever was asking me about languages, you could probably get
        around a lot of Switzerland with French alone, but to be honest
        you're better off using English all over Europe, as long as you try
        to not come across as a brash American tourist (just keep your
        voice down, you'll be surprised.)  -John
        \_ and for fuck's sake, leave that 10-gallon hat at home!
           \_ and your six shooters.
        \_ while true, the french, in particular, definitely appreciate
           when americans make an effort to speak french...no matter
           how lousy their accent/grammar is. try it and you'll see.
           \_ And despite the hate that gets thrown around on here, and
              contrary to cliche, most French people that I have met like
              Americans.  The media just tells you about the negative
              stuff.
        \_ How about faking a British accent and put up an attitude as if
           you're better than those bloody Yankees? Maybe you'll get more
           respect.
        \_ I found that lots of Italians don't speak English, but I was
           able to get by with my half-assed Spanish spoken with an
           Italian accent. -ausman
        \_ Just don't wear shorts, flip flops and a Hawaiian Shirt. Be
           culturally appropriate and no one will mistake you for an
           Ugly American.